Kinesthetic sensibilization exercise with a basketball
During the exercise, a basketball is placed between the palms of uke and tori. It has a primary role of kinesthetic sensibilization. Tori moves the basketball (with appropriate speed and force) so that the uke can follow it. If tori moves too fast or pushes the ball too strongly, it will drop or slip out of the palms.
How is it done?
Uke and tori stand in front of each other, keeping the ball firm with straight arms.
- First level: Tori moves forward, then backward, and then to the side. Uke follows the movement.
- Second level: Tori moves but also turns. Uke tries to follow. Tori should move with the speed and force so that the ball does not fall.
- Third level: Tori can also move vertically, so in all the above directions at the same time (up, down, side, forward, backward, turn, and the combination of these).
- Fourth level: Implement Aikido techniques with the ball between the palms of Tori and Uke. At an advanced level, the ball may be kept between the fists of the participants.
What is it good for?
Although the primary objective of this exercise is to sensibilize the bully, whose role is played by the tori this time, nevertheless it helps developing both sides. The participants need to constantly pay attention to the ball, which helps control the muscle tone. They also need to focus on moving in space. The complex movement (e.g., up, down, forward, etc.) helps develop the skills of coordination and harmonic movement. These fine motoric exercises develop general attention, sensitivity, and empathy.